The box in Gedgrave Road, Orford, has been closedby the Royal Mail after it was invaded by nesting birds.

No one is sure what species has moved into the box – opening it up would disturb them – but it is thought that blue tits or great tits are the most likely occupants.

Pat Walker, from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, spotted the box, and visited it with her colleague Audrey Boyle to try to find out more about the occupants.

Ms Boyle said: “I think it’s great that the Royal Mail have closed the box because of the nest.

“To be fair, I don’t think it’s the busiest post box in the area – but there are so many pressures on small birds that they need to find any shelter they can.

“We do hear about things like this, and if you find a nest please don’t disturb it while the birds are bringing up their young.”

The Royal Mail called in spokeswoman Jennifer Bird to explain: “Royal Mail have temporarily requested that customers do not post letters in the postbox at Gedgrave Road, Orford to protect the currently nesting birds.

“We would like to thank our customers for their patience during this time and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“In the meantime, letters can be posted at the Post Office in Orford village.”